The Search for a New Senior Coach at Carlton
After a long tenure, Michael Voss has decided to step down as the senior coach of Carlton, marking a significant turning point for the club. This decision has opened up a range of opportunities as the Blues embark on the search for their next head coach. With the team experiencing a challenging period over the past 18 months, the pressure on Voss reached a peak following a dismal start to the season, including several second-half collapses.
Here are ten names who could be part of the conversation as Carlton looks to rebuild and move forward:
Adam Simpson – Premiership Coach
Adam Simpson has long been associated with Carlton, having served in a part-time role at the club. He was brought in to assist Voss and the coaching group, but has been away from the field for the past two years after his stint with West Coast came to an end. While he has enjoyed his time in the media and other interests, his close ties to the inner workings of the club make it possible that he could return to a senior coaching position.
Hayden Skipworth – Assistant Coach
Hayden Skipworth, an assistant coach at Essendon, has been linked with the Eagles’ top job in the past, though he narrowly missed out on the position, which was eventually filled by Andrew McQualter. Skipworth has ambitions to lead an AFL side, and his experience at both Essendon and Collingwood has prepared him for the challenges of senior coaching.
John Longmire – Premiership Coach
John Longmire, an established premiership coach, has stepped back from the field after giving up the keys of Sydney at the end of 2024. However, he remains at the Swans in an off-field role and hasn’t ruled out a return to coaching. He is currently involved in media work and may consider a future return to the coaching ranks.
Ken Hinkley – Former Power Coach
Ken Hinkley, the former coach of the Port Adelaide Power, has not closed the door on a return to the AFL landscape. He has been vocal about his desire to continue coaching, and recently admitted to meeting with the Tasmania Devils. Hinkley stated, “I’ve been a coach for 13 years, that’s what I know I can do.”
Daniel Giansiracusa – Development Head
Daniel Giansiracusa has been working around the league, building his profile and skillset. He is currently the head of development at Hawthorn and has spent the last six years at Essendon in various roles. Giansiracusa was recognized as the AFLCA Assistant Coach of the Year in 2020 and has had experience with other senior coaching positions, including West Coast and Melbourne.
Adrian Hickmott – Highly-Rated Assistant
Adrian Hickmott, a highly-rated assistant coach at Hawthorn, has been praised by Sam Mitchell, who believes Hickmott is ready for a top job. Hickmott has worked at Essendon and West Coast before joining the Hawks in 2022. He was also considered for the Eagles’ senior coaching role, which was ultimately filled by Andrew McQualter.
Brendon Lade – Experienced Coach
Brendon Lade has been in the coaching box since 2009, having worked at Richmond, Port Adelaide, St Kilda, and the Western Bulldogs. He was in the running for Melbourne’s top job and remains a candidate for future senior coaching positions.
Corey Enright – Premiership Cat
Corey Enright, a premiership player with Geelong and current St Kilda assistant coach, is being groomed for a senior coaching role. He could potentially replace Ross Lyon if the opportunity arises. If Carlton can convince Enright to leave St Kilda, he would be a strong fit for the Blues.
Ash Hansen and Josh Fraser – Ambitious Assistants
Ash Hansen and Josh Fraser, both assistants at Carlton, have aspirations to become senior coaches. Fraser will take over as interim replacement for Michael Voss, while Hansen has been in discussions regarding other top jobs. However, the struggles during Voss’ tenure may influence their decisions, and a fresh start elsewhere could be a possibility.
